Construction and Materials
As we mentioned earlier, for a budget friendly snowboard the Happy Place really doesn’t skimp on ingredients. A lively and poppy dual wood core is encased with torsionally pliable biax laminates, this differs to previous iterations and makes the Happy Place more playful and forgiving, in fitting with its freestyle nature.
But don’t take that to mean it’s soft and noodly, Gigi knows what’s up when making a snowboard that isn’t just a one trick pony, as such he’s kitted out the Happy Place with carbon cross bracing underfoot. X marks the spot directly underfoot, and the prongs branch out towards the contact points, directing rider input directly to these key zones.
So, while the overall flex is mellow and playful, the Happy Place is still able to drive response and be reactive when needed. This is all finished off with a super slick, drag reducing sintered base that wouldn’t be out of place on a much more expensive, high-end snowboard. The Happy Place is case in point that a really good snowboard doesn’t have to cost the earth, it just has to have the right flair.
“The beauty of the Happy Place is that it really is just a great snowboard without trying to be anything it’s not”
Roundup
It’s a board that transcends all categories, be they ability level, gender or riding style. The beauty of the Happy Place is that it really is just a great snowboard without trying to be anything it’s not, one that anyone can jump on and have a really fun time. Plus, you absolutely cannot argue with the price tag. If you’re looking for something in the same vein, but just a little beefier, be sure to check out the Slash Spectrum.
Pros:
- You’d be hard pushed to find a board that offers better value for money
- It’s a great deck for any rider, regardless of ability level
Cons:
- Aggressive freestylers might find it a little soft for bigger park features
Tester’s Verdict
Joy Dutch – Wordsmith, Whitelines
“My favourite board of the season. I absolutely loved the Happy Place- it ticks every single box I have. I’ve previously ridden this in a 145 and it was good, but this slight size down was definitely preferable for me and my riding style.
If you’ve been to Flachau and ridden the Stash you’ll know some of the features can be a bit intimidating. Especially with the hellishly foggy weather we had where you were lucky to see 10 feet in front of you. But my oh my the Happy Place was such a confidence booster throughout the whole thing.
I really found my freestyle feet with it, it encourages you to try things you previously might not have attempted and allows for a little forgiveness if you’re riding a bit sketchy. It’s super playful in the nose and tail, really nice for buttering and pressing, but you can pick up speed without it flapping around.
For a pretty soft board, the pop is still there, I found you do have to work a little for it and load up the tail, especially when the snow isn’t super firm. I normally find myself playing catch up when riding, but the Happy Place picks up speed out of nowhere even in that late in the day sticky mush. All in all, I’d recommend it for people who prioritise freestyle and playful riding but don’t want something that has to stay in the park all day.”
Trade Secrets
Harry Mitchell-Thompson – Marketing Manager, Slash
We now make this board starting at 135cm… that’s SMALL! But it’s part of Gigi wanting to make snowboarding more accessible for everyone. Not to mention his older son Jona has now upgraded from our kids board the Splash to the Happy Place… so it’s a double whammy. Oh btw, it now goes up to 163W up from 159W last year, as Gigi’s also noticing bigger feet size in general. Getting smaller, bigger too… talk about inclusivity!”
